Espresso week 35
TRC Reports Passenger Train Derailment in Uvinza, Kigoma: 70 Injured, No Fatalities
The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) reports that on 28 August 2024, a passenger train (Y14) travelling from Kigoma to Dar es Salaam derailed between Kazuramimba Station and Uvinza, Kigoma Region, at approximately 7:30 PM. Six coaches derailed, injuring 70 passengers (26 women and 44 men) out of 571 onboard. The injured were transported to Uvinza District Hospital, with most now discharged; eight remain at Uvinza Hospital, and five have been transferred to Maweni Hospital. TRC is providing ongoing support, and no fatalities have been reported. Further updates will be communicated as available.
Nigeria: Red Line Begins Partial Passenger Operations
The Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line is set to begin partial, invitational passenger operations on Wednesday, 28th August 2024, running four trips daily between Oyingbo and Agbado. This marks a significant milestone in the Lagos State Government’s Strategic Transport Master Plan, which includes six rail lines and a monorail aimed at improving connectivity between Lagos and Ogun State. The Red Line’s partial operations follow a successful six-week trial run and will involve non-fee-paying passengers in organised groups to gather feedback before full commercial service begins.
The first phase of the Red Line covers 27 kilometres from Agbado to Oyingbo, offering a reliable and affordable transport option that aims to reduce traffic congestion and enhance the quality of life for Lagos residents. This step aligns with the state’s vision of a modern, efficient, and integrated transport system.
Unscheduled Inspection of Kubwa Train Station Highlights Accessibility and Operational Concerns
During an unscheduled inspection of the Kubwa Train Station in Abuja on 26th August 2024, the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, expressed dissatisfaction with the station’s lack of accessibility for the physically challenged and the elderly. Despite initially visiting due to reports of vandalism affecting the station’s power supply, which left it relying on alternative sources, Alkali’s inspection uncovered broader issues, including inadequate security and operational lapses.
Accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry of Transportation and the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), the Minister found the station’s facilities lacking, with some staff absent, security scanners inactive, and communication equipment non-functional. Notably, the station’s design flaws, such as the absence of escalators, make it challenging for passengers with mobility issues. Senator Alkali urged immediate corrective measures, stressing the need for collaboration between the NRC, the Ministry, and contractors to improve station accessibility and overall service quality.
The Minister also called for enhanced security and better maintenance of the car park, which was found in poor condition with flooding issues. Senator Alkali emphasised the importance of addressing these shortcomings to ensure that train services are inclusive and meet the needs of all passengers.
Nigerian Shippers’ Council Partners with EU to Decongest Lagos Ports
In July 2024, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) partnered with the European Union (EU) to address congestion at Lagos seaports and improve trade efficiency along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor. The partnership, part of the EU’s broader initiative to enhance transport infrastructure in West Africa, includes the €411 million ‘Omi Eko’ project aimed at reducing transport congestion and costs in Lagos.
During a visit to the NSC, EU delegation leader Celine Lhoste highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development and regional trade. The collaboration focuses on enhancing port operations, developing Inland Dry Ports (IDPs), and improving transportation networks.
NSC’s Executive Secretary, represented by Mrs. Ada Okam, welcomed the partnership, emphasizing its role in regulating port tariffs, reducing cargo abandonment, and streamlining operations through automation. The EU’s investment aims to boost both hard and soft infrastructure, including waterways and railway development, to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime sector and drive economic growth.
International: Specific Procurement Notice: Serbia Railway Sector Modernisation Project
The Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure in Serbia invites bids for the design, supply, and installation of light signal replacements on railway level crossings as part of the Serbia Railway Sector Modernization (SRSM) project. Funded by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the Agence Française de Development (AFD), the project is divided into two lots:
- Lot 1: Replacement of light signals at 98 railway level crossings.
- Lot 2: Replacement of light signals at 116 railway level crossings.
Both lots involve signalling and safety works, traffic signalisation, and minor civil works, with a 12-month construction period for each. Bids are to be submitted by October 7, 2024, with an option to bid for one or both lots, including possible discounts for multiple contract awards. The bidding process follows the World Bank’s Procurement Regulations and is open to eligible international bidders.
For more information: Office for inquiry and issuance of the bidding document: Attn: Dejan Jeremić, Procurement Specialist Uzun Mirkova 3, Gallery Floor, PIU Office Tel: +381 11 765 2565 11000 Belgrade To: dejan.jeremic@mfin.gov.rs